The 2025 8th-grade graduating class is a remarkable group of kind, intelligent, and ambitious young students. 

“They've shown compassion, curiosity, and determination throughout their years at The Franciscan School, especially over the past year,” shares 8th-grade teacher Kristen Dellasega. “Each of them is stepping into the future with incredible potential, and as a community, we couldn’t be prouder of the bright paths that lie ahead for them.”

Principal Dawn Smith shares that the current graduating class is smaller than average, and many of these students have been a part of the TFS community for many years. Their bond is strong, shaped by shared experiences and rooted in the Franciscan values that define our school. We celebrate the journey that brought them here as we prepare to send them off.

From long-standing traditions like the Prayer Breakfast and the Washington, D.C. trip, to newer customs like signing the TFS rock and enjoying a catered lunch after graduation rehearsal, these students have embraced every opportunity to leave their mark. 

One tradition that stood out for many students this year was the opportunity to serve as prayer buddies to the kindergarten class. This cherished role allowed our oldest students to serve as mentors and companions to the youngest. “Being a prayer buddy reminded me of a younger me,” one 8th grader shared. “Seeing them grow is pretty cool.”

Another student wrote, “It’s really rewarding to see them get so happy when you do something so simple for them. They just love everything and are so sweet.”

Others reflected on how the experience deepened their faith: “We become closer to them throughout the year, and we grow that close-knit community TFS is,” one said. Another added, “I also love to teach my prayer buddy about Jesus and what He sacrificed for us.”

Our 8th graders also reflect on what they’ll miss most as we prepare for their graduation:

“My friends.”

“The teachers and their classes.”

“The sense of community.”

“Weekly Mass.”

“Lunch at the picnic tables.”

“Prayer buddies and certain teachers.”

“The music during Mass and the way the priests made the Gospels easier to understand.”

But no reflection on their time at TFS would be complete without mention of the class favorite: the unforgettable 8th-grade Washington, D.C. trip. “My favorite memory was probably the DC trip,” one student said, echoing nearly a dozen others. “I loved being with my friends and seeing all the history; it was so much fun and I wish we could return.”

As 8th-grade teacher Alan Johnston said with a smile, “They have grown taller, wiser, and a little bit better at turning in assignments on time! They are ready to show high school how awesome they are, and I look forward to hearing about their successes in the years to come.”

Father Jim captured it best when he reflected on the Franciscan spirit these students carry with them. “They are mighty in their embrace of the Franciscan spirit that makes TFS extraordinary,” he said. “They’ve come to appreciate the impact of living as a Franciscan in the world, with empathy and care for others and a sincere desire to do what is best for more than themselves.”

He continues, “The members of this class have continually impressed me with their daring leadership that seeks to question and understand rather than simply follow and obey.”

We will cheer them on during the Clap Out, honor them at graduation, and wish them well as they take the next step. While we’ll miss their energy and laughter echoing through our halls, we know their story is just beginning.

Class of 2025, you’ve left your legacy. Now build your future.